From 14 Countries and Counting
Elmwood's first international cohort arrived in January 2026. They came for the same reason domestic students do: programs that lead to real jobs in Canada.
Why International Students Choose Elmwood
Employer-Designed Curriculum
Our programs teach what Ontario employers actually need. That means better job prospects after graduation.
Pathway to Employment
Every program open to international students has a defined employment pathway. We do not accept students into programs with no job market.
Support Services
From study permit guidance to airport pickup referrals, we help you land on your feet.
Programs Open to International Students
- Business Administration (all streams)
- Business Administration — Accounting
- Supply Chain & Logistics Operations
- Computer Systems Technology — Software Development
- Computer Systems Technology — Network Engineering & Security
- Graphic Design & Visual Communication
- Biotechnology
- Environmental Technician
- Insurance & Risk Management
Closed to international: Practical Nursing, PSW, Pharmacy Technician, OTA/PTA, and all Apprenticeship programs.
Admission Requirements
Academic
Credential equivalent to Ontario Grade 12 (OSSD). We assess international transcripts ourselves. You do not need to use a third-party service.
English Proficiency
- IELTS Academic: 6.0 overall, no band below 5.5
- TOEFL iBT: 80
- PTE Academic: 53
- Duolingo English Test: 105
- Completion of Elmwood's EAP program
Exceptions: If you studied in an English-language system for 3+ years, you may request a waiver.
Tuition and Fees (2026-2027)
| Program Type | Tuition (CAD, per year) |
|---|---|
| Diploma / Advanced Diploma | $16,500 – $18,000 |
| Graduate Certificate | $18,000 – $20,000 |
| Health Insurance (mandatory) | $650/year |
| Student Activity & Technology | $250/year |
Tuition is due in full before the semester starts unless you arrange a payment plan.
Study Permit and Immigration
After you accept your offer and pay your deposit, Elmwood issues an official Letter of Acceptance. You use this to apply for a study permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Our International Office provides:
- Letter of Acceptance processing
- Study permit guidance (we do not file for you, but we explain every step)
- Co-op work permit support
- Post-graduation work permit (PGWP) information sessions
Housing
Elmwood does not operate residence housing. Most international students rent rooms or apartments in Elmford.
| Type | Cost (per month) |
|---|---|
| Room in shared house | $600–$800 |
| One-bedroom apartment | $1,200–$1,400 |
| Two-bedroom shared | $800–$1,000 per person |
We maintain a rental registry and can connect you with vetted landlords before you arrive.
Life in Elmford
Elmford is a town of 18,000 in Southwestern Ontario. It is 20 minutes from Hamilton, 45 minutes from Toronto by GO Train, and surrounded by farmland and conservation areas. It is safe, affordable, and quiet—ideal for studying.
- Transit: Elmford Regional Transit connects to Hamilton GO station.
- Weather: Winter temperatures reach -20°C. Buy a proper coat.
- Community: The college hosts monthly international student dinners and pairs new arrivals with student mentors.